Mike Tyson wanted a professional comeback at 58 but would only commit to two-minute rounds for his forthcoming clash with Jake Paul.
The former heavyweight champion and 1980s icon returns to the ring in a controversial Netflix fight against a YouTuber opponent. The event will occur on November 15 at AT&T Stadium in Texas after the pair lobbied the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation for approval.
TDLR officials granted that request, meaning Tyson can add to his boxing record almost two decades after his last professional bout. Once the dust settles on the contest, Tyson will be rated fourth on the oldest professional boxers list.
Speaking ahead of their clash, Tyson warned Paul to be ready before Paul stated it was Tyson’s idea not to fight over the usual professional boxing time limit.
“Be in shape, be in good shape because your health depends on it,” warned Tyson. Paul fired back, “You’re the one who wanted to fight two-minute rounds. Do you want to make it ten times three minutes? Don’t talk to me about shape. Do you want ten times three?
“That’s the thing; everyone’s all talk. I’ll do it whenever and wherever; it’s all talk. I’m stating facts.”
After ignoring Paul’s offer to extend the rounds, Tyson added, “Be careful, he should be very careful.”
Again, It was down to the influencer to reveal that Tyson didn’t want to compete in another exhibition after his 2020 offering with Roy Jones Jr.
“[Mike] is the one that wanted it to be a pro fight, so he’s going to get his ass knocked out [for real on his record]. You’re going to see Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson on BoxRec. Jake Paul KOs Mike Tyson,” promised the former Disney child star.
Paul added, “People are always going to have something to say. It’s because I’ve proved everyone wrong. I’m here to make history, and I’m here for a challenge. I’m here to fight one of the most dangerous men in boxing.”
Tyson faces losing for the third time in a row later this year following his knockout defeats to Danny Williams and Kevin McBride. Those 2004 and 2005 stunners live long in the memory of boxing fans who know that ‘Iron’ Mike was miles past the checkpoint at that stage of his career.
There’s a real danger that Tyson could be KO’d again, but this time by a 27-year-old social media guru.
Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, experienced boxing writer, and World Boxing News Editor since 2010. Follow on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
